Bat Week starts on Oct. 24 and ends on Halloween. The celebration aims to raise awareness about these critters, which are the only mammals that truly fly.
While bats can get a bad reputation, they're actually vital for pest control and pollination in their ecosystems.
Northern California is home to many bats. In Lava Beds National Monument alone, there are 16 different species.
Many bat species sleep in caves or other hidden areas during the day, but at night they take to the skies to hunt for bugs. Bat colonies can eat thousands of bugs in an evening, which means fewer mosquitos and other insect pests.
Those interested in learning more about native bats are invited to attend a speaking event from the nonprofit NorCal Bats next month.
The nonprofit rescues and rehabilitates orphaned and injured bats, and corrects harmful myths about the animals through education. At the speaking event, attendees will be able to see three native bats up-close, and learn what can be done to preserve the colonies in their area.
The event is on Saturday, Nov. 16 at 6:30 p.m. Plumas Audubon Society. Pre-registration is required due to limited space.
